Monday, October 31, 2011
Sunday, October 30, 2011
A Great Example
When I read this caption, I immediately thought of one person, no pun intended..lol. That would be Phillip Persson. He is one of our pastors at church. One of his causes is teaching kids music for free on almost any instrument they choose. Never seeking applause but instead teaching them discipline, a work ethic and faithfulness thru music. He also expresses his love for the Lord through song writing. He has written songs for many occasions, like weddings or child dedications, not to impress others but to express God's will and desire for that situation. Philllip has taught me music lessons on the hammer dulcimer for a few years now. I have recently taken a break from those and his absence on Saturday mornings has truly been felt.
I could go on and on about the great example he sets for us all in many different areas of the church and with his life but I just wanted to give a glimpse.
Our ultimate example tho is Jesus. As Christians, let others see us as a good example of what it means to be a believer and follower of Him.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Memory in the Making
Our past is our own. We can share bits and pieces with others but nothing you say or show can really encapsulate all that it means to you. Its like sharing your favorite photo album, your enthusiasm will always be greater than whoever you're showing it to. This video by John Kilzer takes me back to the past, as do many songs for people. Its not good to live in the past tho because we must move forward and grow from our experiences. There is a time and season for why and when things have happened in your life. Don't get stuck in the winter of your journey when spring has so much to offer.
'Don't look back, you're not headed that way' is a quote from my friend, Twylia. If we focus too much on what was then, our eyes won't see what's ahead or right in front of us. We wouldn't want amnesia because memories are part of who we are but we must not dwell there. Make the memories of today then move on to tomorrow.
Friday, October 28, 2011
100th Blog
I can't believe that I've written 100 blogs already but thats what blogspot tells me. Actually this is the 100th. It seems like just yesterday my friend, Gloria, was urging me to start a blog. I had been reading hers, Under Her Wings, for awhile and just thought it to be an overwhelming task. Well I jumped in with both feet blindly and somehow didn't drown as I expected. It is now my favorite hobby. I'm so glad Gloria lit the spark to the little fire inside me that I can share with you. The blog has taught me a lot through looking up relevant bible verses, to sharing my opinions on difficult subjects tactfully, and the growth of dear friendships. What a blessing this blog has been to me. I look forward to writing it every day that I can and am anxious to see what is in store for the blogs to come.
Thank you to all who read my blogs. Thanks especially to those who comment on here, verbally, or by email to me. Your support means alot.
And that's that!
Thank you to all who read my blogs. Thanks especially to those who comment on here, verbally, or by email to me. Your support means alot.
And that's that!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
How Rude
I like this caption because now my reaction to rudeness can be to think how weak they are, instead of just getting angry back. I think you can go out and find rudeness almost anywhere any day of the week. Why is that? Short tempers, impatience, lack of understanding, arrogance and pride are just a few reasons. I think this applies to vocabulary too. Cursing is just rude. A good comedian can tell a joke without any foul language but a weak comedian fills his lack of talent with obscenities. Rudeness isn't a becoming feature so lets try to avoid it in ourselves and others.
''A rude nature is worse than a brute nature by so much more as man is better than a beast: and those that are of civil natures and genteel dispositions are as much nearer to celestial creatures as those that are rude and cruel are to devils.'' M. Cavendish
Proverbs 2;12-15
Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
from men whose words are perverse,
who have left the straight paths
to walk in dark ways,
who delight in doing wrong
and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,
whose paths are crooked
and who are devious in their ways.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Your Word
''One thing you can give and still keep...is your word.''
We all know people who do what they say they're going to do and those who we say to ourselves, yea I'll believe it when I see it. It's easy to entrust someone with a task or favor, if we believe in what they say they will do. Our word is our bond to others. If you say it, fulfill it. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Its better not to over extend yourself in commitments than to agree on something and disappoint those counting on you. It used to be that a handshake and your word was as good as a written legal document. Where has our word gone?
Yes, life happens and things get bumped but we all can be understanding and forgiving to those situations. For the most part tho, we need to be people that can be trusted to do what we said we'd do.
The following I copied from Todd Smith's website.
Starting today, become a person who lives up to your word and does what you say you will even when circumstances change.
Uphold your word with a good attitude. Remember that it was you who said “yes” in the first place.
Take every opportunity to learn from your commitments so that you can make better decisions in the future.
Finally, do you have any unfulfilled commitments? Do them now. You will feel better.
Keeping your word is one of the most effective ways to earn the respect of others and build a solid reputation, both personally and professionally.
We all know people who do what they say they're going to do and those who we say to ourselves, yea I'll believe it when I see it. It's easy to entrust someone with a task or favor, if we believe in what they say they will do. Our word is our bond to others. If you say it, fulfill it. Say what you mean and mean what you say. Its better not to over extend yourself in commitments than to agree on something and disappoint those counting on you. It used to be that a handshake and your word was as good as a written legal document. Where has our word gone?
Yes, life happens and things get bumped but we all can be understanding and forgiving to those situations. For the most part tho, we need to be people that can be trusted to do what we said we'd do.
The following I copied from Todd Smith's website.
Starting today, become a person who lives up to your word and does what you say you will even when circumstances change.
Uphold your word with a good attitude. Remember that it was you who said “yes” in the first place.
Take every opportunity to learn from your commitments so that you can make better decisions in the future.
Finally, do you have any unfulfilled commitments? Do them now. You will feel better.
Keeping your word is one of the most effective ways to earn the respect of others and build a solid reputation, both personally and professionally.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
4 Things You Can't Recover
We've all wanted a re-do over some things we've done. If only it was that easy but we'd probably make even more mistakes knowing we could take it back. This caption tells us of four things that can't be redone.
'The Stone' thrown can't be hurled back. Anger can make you want to throw something or give that slow car in front of you a lil push. The consequences of clean up can really bring on the regrets. ''Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. —Romans 12:19
'The Word' cannot fly back into your mouth, no matter how much you want to take it back. We often get so wrapped up in wanting to express our thoughts and opinions, that we forget to run it thru a filter first. James 1;19-20 ''My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.''
'The Occasion' can never be recaptured exactly the same way. I truly hate to miss out on events that I've planned on but sometimes its unavoidable. There are other times tho that I really didn't have the desire to go but went anyways, I later realize all the good things I would've missed. Hebrews 6:12 ''We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.''
'Time' is passing as we speak. If we cherished time like we should, we would live more in the moment. I told a friend of mine, who was so busy with her kids activities that she had very little time for herself, enjoy it because this time will never happen again. Psalm 89;47 ''Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all humanity!''
Its important to remember these four things are quick to be done or passed by but they will not come back for a second chance.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Put 'Em On
Sometimes you have to just put your big girl panties on! Sometimes people have said to me, I know its hard for you to [something] but you do it anyway. Whatever that [something] is, I do it because its important to me. Just because [something] isn't easy, doesn't mean its not worth doing.
We all deal with tough situations, hopefully not every day. When those times come, although difficult, its best to deal with it right then or as soon as possible. Don't cower or be intimidated, stand up for what you know is right. Like they say, 'if you don't stand for something, then you'll fall for anything.' Often we will give in to peer pressure or just conform to what society calls normal but thats not what we are called to do. We were made in His image and are to be transformed into His likeness.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
2 Corinthians 3:18
And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
The Tomlin Concert
What an awesome night we had. Everything of the night just went perfectly. It began with great parking just across the street. The concert was sold out and began on time. The first song was 'Our God is Greater.' Chris sang about an hour then the female, Kristy Nichols sp?, sang 2 songs. Then there was a speaker talking about how all of God's creations from stars to whales create a symphony of song to sing praise to God. Then Chris sang another hour or more. Sometime during the concert, a guy came up to us and asked if we'd like to meet Chris after the show. YESSSSSS. I prayed that I wouldn't have to cough and miss this opportunity. I'd never been backstage before. It was cool and he was nice. We were gone 4 1/2 hrs this night and it couldn't have been better. 'Our God is an Awesome God'
Friday, October 21, 2011
Chris Tomlin
Going to the Chris Tomlin concert tonight with Charlene and David. Hoping for a good, fun, cough-free night with wonderful, uplifting music. Here's a couple of videos if you've never heard of him before.
okay, just one more
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Sing It
I've been singing my whole life. When I was about 4, we attended Freewill Baptist Church in Conway. I would ask the preacher every Sun night, if I could sing to the church after the service. Most of the time, they let me. Well as I've gotten older, my voice has weakened considerably. That doesn't stop me from singing tho because I enjoy it. A friend told me once, '' my mom sings in the car and I can't stand it but I don't care that you do because I can't really hear you.'' Kids can be so honest, at times..lol. The truth is that I'm not singing for you or anyone else but for me and the joy it brings. Last night in church, I didn't have a hymnal so I tried to just listen. Soon I was reading over the lil girl's shoulder in front of me, singing what I could see.
God wants to hear our voices sing songs about Him, about what He's done and His promises. We can't all be excellent singers but we all have a voice, however small, to sing praises with. Don't be shy, forget your the person beside you and sing loud and proud.
Psalm 98;4-6
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth,
burst into jubilant song with music;
make music to the LORD with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of singing,
with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—
shout for joy before the LORD, the King.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Hot or Cold?
This caption is so like me. The first cold snap of fall is a shock to my system sending chills down my spine. 'It's cold in here' is a common phrase until my body gets used to it. In the spring tho, after bone chilling temps, the same temperature of the fall can be a welcome relief. Why is this? I think its our perspective on the future. In the fall, we know its only going to get worse and colder. In the spring, we know this is the beginning to warmth and the renewing of everything in nature. They're two totally different outlooks.
What is your perspective on your future/eternity? Are you expecting doom and gloom or a renewed body in Christ? Believers can and do look forward to eternity.
We are studying Revelation in our bible study. Below is a list, from Grace Mayo, of ways we can be pulled away from our love with God.
- Attempting to serve two masters (Mt. 6:24)
- A love of money (1 Tim 6:10)
- A love of position (Mt. 23:6)
- Failure to love our enemies (Luke 6:27)
- Trying to live up to the 'letter of the law' and missing the intent (Luke 11:42)
- Pleasure and convenience (Rom. 14:15)
- A love of self (1John 3:16-18)
- Disharmony, hurt, unwillingness to forgive (Eph. 4:30-5:2; Col. 3:12-14; 1 Thes.4:9-10)
- Failing to love others (1 John 4:20)
- Compromising the Word (2 Tim.1:13)
- Failure to witness (2 Cor. 5)
- Trials (Jam.1:25; 1 Pet.4:12-19)
- Sin (1 John 2:5). Sin is transgression of the law; knowing to do good and not doing it; anything in thought, word, or deed contrary to the standard of God.
- Love of the world (1 John 2:15-17)
Rev 3;15-16 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
On Your Side
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How good are you at being still? It's not an easy thing to do in our fast paced worlds that are fiilled with a million activities. Yes, there is and always will be something that could be done. We even make lists but being still a little while should be on there too. Sometimes God will use sickness, injury or whatever means to slow us down. Do we use that time wisely tho? Down time can turn into prayer time, bible reading time, meditation on your blessings time, etc. As this verse from Exodus points out, you are not alone God is on your side fighting for you. 'You need only to be still' means you need to quit running around trying to fix it yourself. Just calm yourself down and pray about it. Even Jesus sought out time to be alone, to be still and to pray.
So go spend some quiet time by yourself and just be still while God fights for you.
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How good are you at being still? It's not an easy thing to do in our fast paced worlds that are fiilled with a million activities. Yes, there is and always will be something that could be done. We even make lists but being still a little while should be on there too. Sometimes God will use sickness, injury or whatever means to slow us down. Do we use that time wisely tho? Down time can turn into prayer time, bible reading time, meditation on your blessings time, etc. As this verse from Exodus points out, you are not alone God is on your side fighting for you. 'You need only to be still' means you need to quit running around trying to fix it yourself. Just calm yourself down and pray about it. Even Jesus sought out time to be alone, to be still and to pray.
So go spend some quiet time by yourself and just be still while God fights for you.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Exercise
Just as the body grows in strength
With exercise each day,
Our spirit grows in godliness
By living life God’s way. —D. De Haan
With exercise each day,
Our spirit grows in godliness
By living life God’s way. —D. De Haan
Godly exercise is the key to godly character.
One thing for sure is that I am not an exercise enthusiast. If I went to the gym, I'd be the one trying to find the closest parking space to the door. I could give excuses of why working out is not my thing but its just not a pleasure but a needed chore in my eyes. When we lived in IL, I used to walk on the treadmill while we watched 'All in the Family' reruns. That helped take my mind off what I was doing. Now I have a stand-up machine for exercise. The dust on it outside is my guilty reminder to get to using it. I will, I'm going to..soon..lol.
We need physical exercise but our bodies need spiritual exercise more importantly. You can do push ups till your last day on this earth, but your body will die. Its guaranteed. Living by the Spirit will make you stronger than any body builder could dream of. Godly exercise will produce fruit that will build your character into who God wants you to be.
Romans 8:11 (NIV) '' And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.''
One thing for sure is that I am not an exercise enthusiast. If I went to the gym, I'd be the one trying to find the closest parking space to the door. I could give excuses of why working out is not my thing but its just not a pleasure but a needed chore in my eyes. When we lived in IL, I used to walk on the treadmill while we watched 'All in the Family' reruns. That helped take my mind off what I was doing. Now I have a stand-up machine for exercise. The dust on it outside is my guilty reminder to get to using it. I will, I'm going to..soon..lol.
We need physical exercise but our bodies need spiritual exercise more importantly. You can do push ups till your last day on this earth, but your body will die. Its guaranteed. Living by the Spirit will make you stronger than any body builder could dream of. Godly exercise will produce fruit that will build your character into who God wants you to be.
Romans 8:11 (NIV) '' And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.''
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Storms
No matter who you are, we all face storms in our lives. They come in all kinds of different ways: sickness, disasters, loss, hurt, etc. They are there for a reason, to teach us. When facing a storm, it can teach us to not rely on ourselves. We are powerless but with God 'all things are possible' and He can calm the storm. On the other hand, He can keep the storm going to teach you to trust in Him and His timing. When asking 'is this ever going to end?', the outcome can teach you patience and perserverance thru that difficult time.
The next time you're in a storm, ask yourself 'What is God trying to teach me from this?' I bet the quicker we learn, the quicker it'll be over. I suppose too that we often have to endure similar storms because God knows our weak areas of learning.
Friday, October 14, 2011
What to Wear?
Have you been to the mall or Walmart lately? Good grief, the clothes that people leave their house in??? What are they thinking? Your appearance says alot about you. I'm not saying you have to 'dress up' to go to the store but jeans are as easy to put on as pajama pants. 'Pajama' gives you a clue on where they are to be worn..'bed', not in public. And please, cover the essentials! Buy a belt to keep your pants up, buy a bra that fits and a shirt is not a dress. How we present ourselves to the world is a testimony in it of itself. Show the world you respect yourself by dressing with decency, appropriateness, and modest style.
1 Timothy 2;9-10 '' I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.''
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Too Busy?
From the Daily Bread-- ''If we’re too busy to spend time with God, we’re simply too busy''
How many of us have said we just don't have time to read our Bibles, go to church or even pray? Is it really that we have no time or that we don't set aside time? I know I've been guilty of this, especially when I worked. I understand the busyness of the week's schedules and the exhaustion that follows. My weekends were for sleeping in and the thought of getting up early on Sunday just got pushed aside. That's too busy of a lifestyle tho. Retiring at 30, slowed me down and rearranged my time and what activities were important to me. Church and bible study are now priorities. Its true, they refresh your mind and soul for the week.
Take time for God. Nothing should be more important than cultivating a relationship with the Lord, and nothing is more essential to maintaining that relationship than a daily time alone with the Lord in the Word and prayer.
He spends every second thinking about you and working on your behalf.
How many of us have said we just don't have time to read our Bibles, go to church or even pray? Is it really that we have no time or that we don't set aside time? I know I've been guilty of this, especially when I worked. I understand the busyness of the week's schedules and the exhaustion that follows. My weekends were for sleeping in and the thought of getting up early on Sunday just got pushed aside. That's too busy of a lifestyle tho. Retiring at 30, slowed me down and rearranged my time and what activities were important to me. Church and bible study are now priorities. Its true, they refresh your mind and soul for the week.
Take time for God. Nothing should be more important than cultivating a relationship with the Lord, and nothing is more essential to maintaining that relationship than a daily time alone with the Lord in the Word and prayer.
He spends every second thinking about you and working on your behalf.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Grudges
What is a grudge? A persistant feeling of resentment, especially due to some cause, such as insult or injury. Do you have free renters in your head? I'd say mine set up temporary housing and I try to evict them as quick as possible. Holding a grudge gives your power over to someone else and hurts you worse than them. Grudges will control your thoughts, attitude and disposition. It's not healthy. So what's the solution? Forgiveness. It clears the mind, if you truly embrace it. We are all guilty of saying or doing things worthy of a grudge so if you want forgiveness, you also have to give it. If you're unforgiving, you may pay the price repeatedly by bringing anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience. Your life may become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can't enjoy the present.
Budge that grudge right out of your mind. Nothing is free in this world so don't give away your mind and thoughts to anger, but instead let peace, compassion and understanding take its place.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Get Out There
“It is not good for the man to be alone” (Gen. 2:18).
It is so easy now to do so much from the comfort of our own homes. We can shop, order food, visit with friends thru email or social networking, watch movies, and even work from home. We could easily isolate ourselves and rarely get out into the actual world.. Would that be good for us though? No, of course not. We are made to be social beings. We are to have fellowship with one another both to encourage and rebuke. 1 John 1:7 ''But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.'' Isolation can lead to lonliness, depression and an unhealthy attitude of self-reliance.
We need each other, thats all there is to it. Go on, get out there and socialize. Remember the home-bound too, they especially need your company.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Which Direction?
Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Where are we going in our lives? Is it filled with purpose or just getting by? So many people are unhappy in where they are in life. Why? Often its a self-centered life focused on the here and now with no thought of eternity. As Suess says, you've been given the brains and feet to go and be whatever you want in life but it takes your efforts, drive and direction to get there. People often want the perks without the works. You can squeak by doing the bare minimum but don't expect maximum results from it.
God has a chosen path for you and if you choose that path, the joy will be like a cup that runneth over. If you choose the path of wickedness, you will reap what you sow and never have joy. The direction you choose will lead to happiness or destruction. Its really not a hard choice, is it?
Psalm 17:5 My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not stumbled.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Thinking of You
1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
Today while sitting in church, I noticed the little girl's journal in front of me. This family of four girls take notes during each service. The entry I read must have been from Wed. night prayer time. She had 'PRAYER' and a paragraph of people and things to pray for. I was the first on her list. How sweet is that to know even an 8yr old has you in her prayers. It just goes to show you're never too young to do something for someone else. Prayers can be more help than anything else.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
THINK
We all have something to say but these 5 questions could save us all alot of grief. The tongue can be quick and harsh if not controlled. 'True' is very important. We don't want to start a rumor or bear false witness. 'Helpful' --is what you wana say beneficial, encouraging? Or are your words adding flame to the fire? 'Inspiring' words can cause great things to happen. Words that motivate others often spread joy beyond that one person. 'Necessary' words can prevent harm or steer someone in the right direction. Your opinion is not always necessary tho, a listening ear may be all thats needed. 'Kind' words are always best. Words enriched with praise, appreciation, and love can go so much further in getting your point across.
Yes, its easier said than done but just 'T-H-I-N-K' on it before you speak abruptly.
Friday, October 7, 2011
One More Bus
Job 10:12
You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in your providence watched over my spirit.
You're probably thinking that I've ridden so many buses by now, that I probably lived in one down by the river? Well, no, not as of yet. haha. After yesterday's blog on the 'hated' bus, I want to share with you the story of the most 'grateful' bus.
In 1993, we decided to move from Arlington, TX to the Chicago area. This threw a wrench in my college plans. There are tons of colleges there to choose from but trying to find the right one took alot of research. I chose NIU in DeKalb, IL. [trivia..hometown of Cindy Crawford] The university provided handicapped students with transportation. With the huge campus and terrible weather, it was invaluable. The heated bus picked me up at home, dropped me off at the appropriate buildings and took me back home. That would've been sufficient but they would also take me to get lunch at Wendys. Even the grocery store was a destined option and they'd carry my stuff in the house for me. How provided for was I?? Amazingly so. We had a ramp in our garage instead of steps to get to the door. It was about 3feet high and I fell off backwards once. They found and helped me off the cold concrete floor of the garage. I could've laid there all day. Another provision to my care and well being. During the summer semester, we no longer lived in DeKalb so that disqualified me from the bus. The bus driver let me keep my scooter at her house and picked me up with the bus there.
Without the bus and the generosity of the bus driver, I couldn't have finished my senior year. God knew it was important to me and provided beyond what I asked for. Every step of the way was paved for me and my protection. How has God paved your way?
You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in your providence watched over my spirit.
You're probably thinking that I've ridden so many buses by now, that I probably lived in one down by the river? Well, no, not as of yet. haha. After yesterday's blog on the 'hated' bus, I want to share with you the story of the most 'grateful' bus.
In 1993, we decided to move from Arlington, TX to the Chicago area. This threw a wrench in my college plans. There are tons of colleges there to choose from but trying to find the right one took alot of research. I chose NIU in DeKalb, IL. [trivia..hometown of Cindy Crawford] The university provided handicapped students with transportation. With the huge campus and terrible weather, it was invaluable. The heated bus picked me up at home, dropped me off at the appropriate buildings and took me back home. That would've been sufficient but they would also take me to get lunch at Wendys. Even the grocery store was a destined option and they'd carry my stuff in the house for me. How provided for was I?? Amazingly so. We had a ramp in our garage instead of steps to get to the door. It was about 3feet high and I fell off backwards once. They found and helped me off the cold concrete floor of the garage. I could've laid there all day. Another provision to my care and well being. During the summer semester, we no longer lived in DeKalb so that disqualified me from the bus. The bus driver let me keep my scooter at her house and picked me up with the bus there.
Without the bus and the generosity of the bus driver, I couldn't have finished my senior year. God knew it was important to me and provided beyond what I asked for. Every step of the way was paved for me and my protection. How has God paved your way?
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Burdens
“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens” (Psalm 68:19).
Every one of us deals with daily burdens. It may be of no significance to someone else but to us, it's a weight on our shoulders. We often want to avoid it or work our way around it but facing it is usually the outcome.
In 10th grade, I had just had back surgery and couldn't climb stairs. Therefore, I had to ride the 'special' bus to my new high school. The bus had a lift that I would stand on and raise me up to get on board. I felt humiliated and embarrassed to be on this bus, especially to a new school. I came home the first day and just cried. It was going to be a long, miserable year. The next day, I met a friend on the bus who had cerebral palsy. She was in the same boat as me but had already ridden this bus for 2years. We became good friends not only on the bus but at lunch too. My view of the bus never became 'pleasurable' but I did get to know the rest of the riders as people and to think less of myself.
Daily burdens are not carried by us alone. God shares in them and teaches us with them. He will provide whatever we need to get through them every day.
Every one of us deals with daily burdens. It may be of no significance to someone else but to us, it's a weight on our shoulders. We often want to avoid it or work our way around it but facing it is usually the outcome.
In 10th grade, I had just had back surgery and couldn't climb stairs. Therefore, I had to ride the 'special' bus to my new high school. The bus had a lift that I would stand on and raise me up to get on board. I felt humiliated and embarrassed to be on this bus, especially to a new school. I came home the first day and just cried. It was going to be a long, miserable year. The next day, I met a friend on the bus who had cerebral palsy. She was in the same boat as me but had already ridden this bus for 2years. We became good friends not only on the bus but at lunch too. My view of the bus never became 'pleasurable' but I did get to know the rest of the riders as people and to think less of myself.
Daily burdens are not carried by us alone. God shares in them and teaches us with them. He will provide whatever we need to get through them every day.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Good?
Have you seen or heard of the new campaign sign on city buses called 'Are you good without God?' It's a slogan from an atheist group. Let's break it down. First, 'Are you good?' NO. The bible clearly states that no one is even close to being good. Mark 10:18 (NIV) “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. Secondly, 'without God?' Your pure existence is dependent on God. You can choose to deny Him but you're not self sufficient by any means. So to even ask, 'are you good without God?' is wasted breath. You are nothing without God. He supplies your every need, every day. Luke 11:3 (NIV) 'Give us each day our daily bread.' Thank Him for all the goodness in your life, despite how bad we really are.
Phil 1;6 ''that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.''
Phil 1;6 ''that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.''
On the Porch
Here's our Mr. Scarecrow on our front porch. Yes, he's a little on the chubby side but he needs to be so that you can see him from the road. He adds a lil fall flavor to our plain white house. I love decorating for the different seasons. I would love fall, if my allergies and ragweed were erased from it. I'll just try to imitate Mr. Scarecrow's smile and 'grin and bear it.' Happy Fall Yall!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Press on...
We are all disintegrating in some form at this very moment. Our days are numbered and are being used up one by one. I know of someone who has just succumbed to their disability. Its a sad state of existence as a hermit, not only for them but their family. I hear of people that have been diagnosed with an uncurable diagnosis, not deadly just debilitating, and say they'd rather just go on to heaven. I think this is a bad attitude. Of course, we should look forward to meeting our Maker but you can still make a difference in the world around you. Acceptance of the changes in you is critical. Don't give up, just work thru it. Keep your mind active. Conversation, games, reading...whatever your mind enjoys. Get involved with a project. We all have something to offer. Savor the precious little moments that happen all around you. Watching a squirrel outside or taking a short drive can refresh and rejuvinate your mind and soul. Go on, get off the bench and do something that shows your alive and well.
Justice
Deuteronomy 16:20 ''Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you.''
When we feel like we've been done wrong, the seeking of justice is usually not far behind. My friend's two year old daughter was recently asked during family worship time, if there was anything that she wanted prayed for. ''Justice!'' was her reply. ''I asked for a stroller with flowers and I didn't get it.'' That's as hilarious as it is cute. How does a 2yr old even know the word 'justice' and the correct meaning? Law school bound I think.
The second year we lived in IL, we had an apartment in Naperville. One day during the dead of winter, I was home alone. I heard noise from outside our front door and concluded that someone was stealing from our woodpile. I hopped on my scooter, as fast as a turtle can go, and headed out the door for some vigilante justice. Well without a coat on, my pursuit was short lived. As I froze to the core, I thought 'what are you really gona do, if you do catch 'em? This scooter can't even jump the curb.' I went back home and reported the incident to the apartment complex's office. The police did catch the teenage thieves because we weren't their only victims in the complex.
In our self-reliant culture, we tend not to talk to the Lord about things we have under control or think we can handle ourselves. But we are instructed to seek His guidance in all areas (Phil. 4:6) and acknowledge our need of Him. He is just and will take care of all things on our behalf, now or later.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Rough Week
It has been a rough week of battling congestion. A postponed vacation trip. Outings that I anticipated but got cancelled due to coughing. Today is Sunday and I've made it thru the week. Its been a great day today with church and Olive Garden for lunch. Also, my friend is here for the weekend to be my joy booster. Small things can mean big moments with a grateful heart. Looking forward to a better week of health and opportunities.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
The Horn
Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. —Colossians 4:6
There are two types of people in this world, horn blowers and non-horn blowers. I am a definite horn blower. I would use the horn on my scooter if it packed a punch but it doesn't, its like a squeaky lil mouse. One day I was driving home from work on a two lane road but still in town. A car coming from the opposite direction suddenly did a U-turn right in front of me and was now the car in front of me. I had to slam on my brakes, with countless cars behind me, to avoid hitting the car. Boy, I was ticked. I laid on that horn like there was no tomorrow. Well, I forgot about the stoplight just ahead and of course, it turned red. The reckless driver now proceeds to get out of his car and walk towards me??? Oh my gosh, I thought, maybe I held the horn a lil too long. I'd heard of window bashing road rage so I didn't know what to expect. I cracked the window to a bare minimum to hear him say, 'I'm so sorry, I shouldn't have done that.' Relieved from fear, I was more than forgiving..lol. I said, 'its okay, just get back in your car.' Whew, that could have gone a lot differently.
A temper and a horn can put you in a compromising position. Grace in your speech can calm it all down rather quickly. Go ahead and blow your horn but maybe a little more controlled.